We Are (Not) One, Part 2
According to this unscientific-looking survey, half of the North Koreans living in South Korea would prefer to live in the United States, despite differences of language and culture and a lifetime of anti-American brainwashing. Why?
A survey conducted by the Chosun Ilbo on Monday among 100 North Korean refugees who settled in South Korea found that 50 would go to the U.S. given a choice and 46 South Korea. The others were not sure.
Of those who chose the U.S., 22 said they were unhappy with the South Korean government’s North Korea policy. “Because I hate Kim Jong-il I risked my life to come all the way here,” one said. “What is this nonsense? It’s gotten to the point where you can’t tell the difference between North and South Korea. The government’s policy on North Korea is wrong.”
Well, it seems like a few brains need another good washing. Surprisingly, ideology mattered more than economics.
Fifteen respondents said the U.S. was a land of opportunity. “The U.S. has abundant material and cultural wealth, and there is much freedom there,” one said. “Sure, there will be some difficulties to overcome, but the U.S. is the country with more possibilities.”
My own unscientific survey revealed similar results (Question 9). It’s enough to make you suspect that reunification would mean a sharp right turn for Korean politics, though pocketbook issues would eventually predominate.
My own unscientific survey has Australia slightly preferred over the US, perhaps out of politeness to their teacher, or because as ROK passport holders they have heard good first hand reports about Oz. from other defectors who have lived and worked there on a working holiday visa.